Becoming a staff nurse is one of the biggest steps that nurses take. For many the transition from being a student to a fully qualified practitioner is challenging and stressful. Yet the problems and difficulties of taking on the first post following training have only relatively recently been studied systematically with a view to seeing what might be done to improve the situation. A research study by Lathlean and others (1986) evaluated three specially established schemes aimed at the professional development of newly registered nurses. The insights gained from this study, and the rich case material provided by a large number of newly registered nurses, stimulated the writing of this book. The editors, together with the contributors, have attempted to address imprtant aspects of the staff nurse role so that those embarking on it may have a better understanding of it. The book is further intended to give practical help and information to assist not only students about to qualify and nurses when just qualified, but also those who are more senior and who want to review their roles, as well as people with the responsibility to support and develop them, such as sisters and educators.